Philadelphia Phillies
After signing Jake Arrieta and Carlos Santana last offseason, possibly expediting their rebuild, the Philadelphia Phillies find themselves just behind the Nats. They have been expected to be big players in the upcoming offseason, but nobody expected them to make a serious run at winning the division in 2018.
Now, the Phillies are in a tricky spot. With the Braves and Nats atop the division, the Phillies have a tough road to the top. They could be a Wild Card team if they fall short in the division, but their best bet is to try to dethrone the Nats.
Unfortunately, the Phillies have recently hit a rough patch. If they are going to make the postseason, they must make a few moves at the deadline. However, due to their window to win just beginning to open, they should mostly focus on players who can make an impact for years to come. They do have an opportunity to make the postseason this year, but they will have a much better chance in the coming seasons.
Led by Arrieta and Aaron Nola, the Phillies’ rotation has been surprisingly solid. Vince Velasquez and Nick Pivetta have been inconsistent, but they have each shown promising signs. If Matt Klentak can find a veteran starter, perhaps a guy like Chris Archer or Marcus Stroman, he should be all over it.
Philadelphia’s bullpen has also been a bit shaky. Hector Neris, the Phillies’ saves leader, was recently sent to Triple-A. He has great stuff but has shown a tendency to have epic meltdowns in high-leverage situations.
Edubray Ramos, Victor Arano, and Seranthony Dominguez have formed a dominant trio of young relievers, but they could use a veteran presence in the ‘pen. Pat Neshek is progressing towards his season debut after missing the first few months with a shoulder strain, but another veteran reliever would be a welcome addition.
Finally, the Phillies could use another offensive threat in the infield to accompany Santana and Cesar Hernandez. They have been rumored to be a suitor for Manny Machado, but they are not ready for such a significant trade.
Instead, Philadelphia should target a guy like Whit Merrifield. He is making just $569,500 this season and is under team control through 2022. The Royals recently dealt Kelvin Herrera, which will likely begin a series of trades. If they are willing to part with Merrifield, he could be a perfect fit in Philadelphia.
Although the Phillies may be on the outside looking in as far as the 2018 playoff picture is concerned, they could make a few moves to improve their chances of contending in 2019 and beyond.